If you’re building a business in Glens Falls, this is your chance to learn exactly what funding the City offers, how to qualify, and what to have ready before you apply. WorkSmart founder and director, Christy Alexander, will be joined by Jeff Flagg, Glens Falls’ Director of Economic Development for this event.

Whether you're still in the idea phase or just starting to gain traction, this is the kind of inside knowledge that can save you time, money, and a lot of guesswork.

You'll walk away knowing:

• What local funding programs exist and who qualifies

• How to position yourself to actually access them

• What to have ready before you apply

• What's coming down the pipeline you should know about now

Paid Event

Cyber insurance can be confusing, but it is key to risk management for businesses. Dr. Unal Tatar breaks down how cyber insurance works, what policies actually cover, and what businesses need to have in place before applying.

The Cyber Smart Leadership Series is a partnership between LogicalNet and UAlbany’s College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity.

Practical, jargon-free education for business owners and government leaders across the Capital Region.

Innovate 518 is one of ten Innovation Hot Spot in New York State, a program of NYSTAR and Empire State Development.  Come to this session to learn how your startup can benefit from being Hot Spot certified, and start utilizing tax incentives that can help your business grow.

Hosted at Tech Valley Center of Gravity in Troy. Lunch will be served!

Eligible companies meet the following criteria: 

• Enrolled and be in good standing with an affiliated Innovate 518 incubator or accelerator. 

• In the first five years of existence (seven years for life science companies) 

• Tech-focused (industry-agnostic) 

• In the formative stage of business growth: 

• Less than one $1 million in annual revenue or equity capital and/or; 

• In the prototyping/development phase or earlier and/or; 

• On a path towards sustainability and/or growth 

Innovate 518 is a collaborative effort of incubators from New York's Capital Region, including Albany, Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Warren, and Washington counties, managed by the University at Albany.  

You don't have to explain what it's like to run a business to the people in this room, they already know. The WorkSmart Entrepreneur Meet-Up brings together storefront owners, creatives, service providers, and solopreneurs for an evening of genuine connection. Leave your business cards at home, this is a space for real conversations, not networky sales pitches. Light bites and drinks will be provided, so come hungry and curious.

$15

Looking to stay competitive in digital manufacturing and advanced production?

Join Train Develop Optimize (TDO) and the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT) for an in-person Introduction to Model-Based Definition (MBD) training designed for manufacturers across aerospace and defense, precision machining, medical devices, electronics, microelectronics, plastics, automation, and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Learn how MBD is transforming design, communication, and production workflows across the manufacturing lifecycle.

There is a $250 training cost fully covered for up to 25 participants through grant funding. Learn more.

How Deep Tech Startups Build AI Moats — and why investors are paying attention

​Deep tech founders spend years hardening their core technology — novel materials, proprietary processes, physical infrastructure with real switching costs. But when investors sit across the table, they're asking a different question: how does AI compound what you've already built?

​This session is for founders in climate tech, biotech, energy, robotics, and advanced manufacturing who want to understand how AI layered on top of hard technology creates the kind of defensibility that VCs actually underwrite.

Startup Tech Valley is a meetup for the Capital Region entrepreneurship community. Attendees include entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, mentors, students, employees of startups, service providers to startups, and anyone else who wants to be involved or is curious.

This month's Startup Tech Valley will be hosted in Schenectady, NY, at Museum of Innovation & Science (miSci). Join us to meet the community and see local startups pitch!

What to Expect:

• Connect + Engage. Start with networking and then get introduced to startups through pitch sessions.

• No cost to attend, however RSVP is required.

• Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar available.

• 5:30pm Networking | 6:00 - 7:00pm Pitch Sessions

If you're interested in sponsoring, you can reach out here.

If you're interested in pitching, you can reach out here.

LogicalNet will host a webinar presented by Dr. Benjamin Yankson about Internet of Things (IoT) vulnerabilities alongside the University at Albany Cybersecurity Department.

This webinar will provide practical, easy-to-understand guidance for individuals and organizations on recognizing and managing cybersecurity risks posed by Internet of Things (IoT) devices. It will focus on actionable steps to secure connected devices without sacrificing convenience or productivity.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Identify common IoT risks and hidden vulnerabilities in everyday smart devices.

• Make smarter security decisions to protect personal data, privacy, and digital environments.

• Balance convenience and security so connected technologies enhance life and work without increasing cyber risk.

Dr. Benjamin Yankson is an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director of Cybersecurity at the State University of New York at Albany (USA). He holds a PhD in Computer Science, an MBA in Management, and an MS in IT Security.  He is the Founder and Director of the HackIoT & PCCRT Research Lab and the visionary behind the Global CyberTech Exchange—a nonprofit initiative advancing cybersecurity capacity and leadership through global academic-industry collaboration.  

The Research & Innovators Startup Exchange (RISE) is a collaborative entrepreneurship program that takes research from concept to commercialization, while building a business development team, in eight weeks. Over 35 graduate students have participated in this program with support from a StAR grant--a campus funding program to support initiatives that drive innovation and make meaningful societal contributions.

• 2 p.m. - Welcome & Demo Day Pitches Begin

  • RISE Demo Day kicks off with a welcome and a series of short, focused pitches from emerging startups. Teams will share what they’re building, the problems they’re solving, and what’s next for their concepts.

• 4:20 p.m. - Awards & Announcements

  • We’ll reconvene to announce the Demo Day winners and celebrate the teams’ progress and achievements.

• 4:30 to 6 p.m. - Reception at the UAlbany Innovation Center

  • Join us just steps away at the UAlbany Innovation Center in the ETEC Building for food, drinks, and conversation. We celebrate the achievements of the students, researchers, and founders culminated in the last year--only achievable with the support of the University through the StAR grant.

This reception is also an opportunity to:

• Meet the teams behind the startups

• Connect with mentors, partners, and members of the startup community

• Explore the Innovation Center and see where startups grow and collaborate at UAlbany

The reception is hosted by the UAlbany Innovation Center and is open to all Demo Day attendees.

Join us for dinner and learn something new! Get expert insight into the prototyping process for new entrepreneurs and inventors.

This program is for:

• Individuals that have an idea for a new product, but aren’t sure how to turn it into a business.

• Researchers and professionals who’ve developed new tech in a lab or at work, and see an opportunity for commercialization

• New entrepreneurs who sell unique products as a hobby, and want to improve their product and grow sales

• Anyone who wants to learn the basics of starting a product-based business

We’ll cover:

• The typical lifecycle of a new hardware product business

• Examples of prototyping for customer discovery

• What tools & resources modern hardware engineers are using

• Some real-life examples of how doing early market research with basic prototypes changed the course of a product

• Q&A - Read our presenter bios, and bring them your questions!

Dan Falkenstrom is the Operations Director at Tech Valley Center of Gravity, the Capital Region's premier makerspace & incubator. Dan oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring that hobbyists, entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses have the resources, support, and collaborative environment they need to build and thrive. He has a background in manufacturing, with prior engineering positions at Pratt & Whitney and GE.

Troy Fischer is a veteran toy inventor of 25 years with hundreds of products under his belt. After 14 years with the Toy Biz division of Marvel Entertainment, he established Fishco Innovation in 2007. Fishco has developed mechanical and optical innovations in toy design for Hasbro, Fisher-Price, Spin Master, and Jakks Pacific.

Dinner: Chicken Parm buffet with non-alcoholic beverages.

In this presentation, Darrin Jahnel and Zach Hartman, of InfoLink R&D Tax Specialists, will demystify the R&D Tax Credit and show how companies across manufacturing, software development, engineering, and architecture can unlock significant financial benefits by identifying qualifying activities they’re already performing. Participants will learn how these activities—such as designing new or improved production processes, engineering innovative structural solutions, or developing custom software to enhance function, performance, or quality—can translate to valuable R&D credits. Through practical examples and plain‑language guidance, this session will help startups better understand eligibility, documentation, and how to turn innovation into real tax savings. 

Key Takeaways 

• Understand what types of activities qualify for the R&D Tax Credit across multiple industries 

• Learn how “technical uncertainty” applies to real‑world projects and innovation efforts 

• Identify common qualifying activities such as process improvements, engineering solutions, and custom software development. 

• Gain clarity on how to document R&D activities to support a credit claim 

• Leave with actionable insights to assess your organization’s potential R&D credit opportunities 

A series of speakers covering device and packaging innovations for next-gen AI/HPC systems.  Registration is free but mandatory.   Breakfast and lunch will be provided for all registered attendees.  Parking information will be sent out after registration.

This month's Startup Tech Valley will feature student entrepreneurs competing in the New York Business Plan Competition. Come meet the students, give them feedback as they launch their companies, and cheer on the next generation of innovators.

What to Expect:

• Pitches from College Students participating in the Capital Region/NYS Business Plan Competition

• High-impact networking with the region’s entrepreneurship ecosystem

• Complimentary light refreshments; cash bar available

Free to attend (RSVP is required)

5:30 p.m. Networking | 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Pitch Sessions

How does a startup actually start selling its product or service?  In this special hands-on workshop Dr. Sarah Parker Ward will share the secrets of customer acquisition and customer journey. Learn how a startup can take the critical step of acquiring paying customers.

Free and open to the public.  Food and drinks will be served.

LogicalNet will co-host a webinar on cybersecurity for entrepreneurs with the University at Albany Cybersecurity Department, one of the largest digital security programs in the New York.

Presented by Dr. C Ariel Pinto, the department chair, this webinar will offer entrepreneurs the guidance they need to protect themselves from hacks and scams. Instead of technical jargon, it will focus on practical, actionable steps you can use to keep your business safe.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Make smarter cybersecurity decisions by treating security as a strategic use of business resources—not just an IT expense.

• Turn cybersecurity investments into measurable business value, enhancing products and services and strengthening customer trust.

• Find the right balance between strong security and day-to-day operational efficiency, so protection supports growth instead of slowing it down.

RPI's newest generation of innovators pitch their technologies and compete for $50,000 in prizes and launch funds.

 Cast your vote for best pitch!

Awards include:

• The Clarke Thrasher IV '24 SaaS Digital Venture Prize.

• The Vida and Art Goldstein '57 Prize in Quantum Innovation.

• The Tech Transfer Challenge supported by the Ajit Prabhu '98 Catalyst Fund.

• Catalyst Launch Awards supported by the Ajit Prabhu '98 Catalyst Fund.

• The Business Plan Grand Prize supported by the Agrawal Family Foundation Fund.

Please join BIANYS hear from Nicole Camarre, Vice President of Investments & Platform at 43North New York States $5M accelerator program. She leads the end-to-end investment process — from sourcing and selection through diligence and portfolio support — and oversees platform strategy acting as a “player-coach” who works closely with founders to ensure they have the capital, resources, and networks needed to scale. 

Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities.

Inviting all community members to be part of the conversation, 1 Million Cups fosters entrepreneurship and helps support an economy that works for everyone.

Join us at Startup Tech Valley, the Capital Region’s premier startup event, featuring four technology-driven startups taking the stage to pitch.

Connect with innovators, investors, business leaders, mentors, students, and startup supporters from across the Capital Region. Whether you’re actively building, investing, advising or simply curious, this event is designed to engage and inspire.

What to Expect:

• Four live startup pitches from emerging technology companies

• High-impact networking with the region’s entrepreneurship ecosystem

• Complimentary light refreshments; cash bar available

• Free to attend (RSVP is required)

• 5:30 p.m. Networking | 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Pitch Sessions

Don’t miss this opportunity to see what’s next in tech — and connect with the people building it.

Market positioning, defining a target audience, developing a compelling brand identity, and leveraging digital platforms for promotion and sales.

Instructor: Richard Sellers, SCORE

This is the third class in our Entrepreneurship program. 
Registration opens March 4, if space is available.

Register for the entire program at https://innovationcentersaratoga.org/entrepreneur

Thank you to NBT Bank and Phillips Lytle LLP for their sponsorship of this program.

Follow up last month’s lunch & learn on making your first hire with this month’s presentation on how to actually onboard your hire! Debra Best, founder of Deb Best Practices – HR 911/411, will discuss the ins and outs of what founders need to consider from an HR perspective. Unlike a large corporation, most startups don’t have a dedicated HR employee, much less a team. Attend this session to avoid many of the common (and sometimes costly) headaches that arise from simply not knowing what you need to know! With over 35 years of experience, Deb has plenty of cautionary tales to share.  

Takeaways:  

• The basics of “People Ops” and having an infrastructure in place 

• Administrative details for legal compliance 

• Understanding the uniqueness of the NYS regulatory environment 

• Overall “Best Practices”  

About the Speaker 

Deb Best, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Owner and Principal of Deb Best Practices, has more than 35 years of state-wide and national business, recruitment / IT recruitment, change management, stakeholder communications and senior human resources / people operations leadership experience for Fortune 5, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, consumer and supply-chain publicly and privately held companies, including General Electric, Trans World Entertainment and Boston Scientific, as well as non-profit, statewide and national associations, academic, medical and public-sector organizations, including the State of New York. Central to her work as an HR Practitioner is to partner with leaders at all levels to define and leverage both talent and challenges to meet needs, which in turn maximizes success for both the organization and the individual.  

A graduate of The University of New York at Albany with a B.A. in English, Deb received her SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources) certification from The Society of Human Resources Management in 1998, and her SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional) designation in 2015. She is also a trained community (NYS) and workplace dispute Mediator, as well as an authorized Everything DiSC® Partner. Deb was a long-time columnist and blogger for the Albany Times Union’s Women@Work Magazine. 

The Québec–New York Transportation Rendezvous & B2B returns to Plattsburgh for a full day of networking, business matchmaking, and industry insights. This in-person event brings together manufacturers and service providers from the ground transportation and aerospace sectors to connect with potential customers, suppliers, and resources across the Québec–New York corridor.

Attendees will gain access to a dedicated B2B matchmaking platform hosted by B2B/2GO, along with keynote presentations, panels, and breakout sessions focused on timely industry topics. In 2024, the event attracted nearly 220 participants who engaged in almost 200 B2B meetings.

How does your business create, deliver, and capture value–whether you are a for-profit or a non-profit? It’s the core mechanism that makes your business work. Develop a plan that details how you will do it, including strategies, timelines, and financial projections.

Instructor: Richard Sellers, SCORE

This is the second class in our Entrepreneurship program. 
Registration opens February 25, if space is available.

Register for the entire program at https://innovationcentersaratoga.org/entrepreneur

Thank you to NBT Bank and Phillips Lytle LLP for their sponsorship of this program.

Registration Now Open!

 Upstate Capital’s convening of investors, fund managers, founders, and regional leaders is focused on how Upstate New York attracts, deploys,  and scales early- and later-stage capital.

The Impact Exchange will bring together public and private capital leaders from across New York State for an afternoon of timely conversation, practical insight, and high-impact networking designed to strengthen the regional investment ecosystem and drive real deal flow.


Program highlights include:


• Building early-stage and emerging fund pipelines

• Scaling place-based and emerging managers

• Insights into New York’s institutional investment model

• High-value networking with investors and ecosystem leaders

• Event concludes with an evening networking reception.

With electricity costs rising and grid reliability margins shrinking, the decisions being made this year on the State’s energy strategy will shape New York's path for decades to come. At this February membership meeting, we will discuss our plans for 2026, share progress across our five strategic initiatives, and explore how members can help ensure that cost-effective energy storage solutions are central to New York's grid modernization plans.

Please note: this is a members-only event. Click through for planned agenda.

Lunch & Learn: Hiring Your First Employee (Fractional or Full-Time) 

Hiring your first employee is one of the most critical decisions a founder will make. The right hire can accelerate growth and free up founder time; the wrong one can create drag, burn cash, and introduce avoidable risk. 

In this Lunch & Learn, Chris Wessell will share a practical, recruiting-focused framework for making your first hire. Defining the role, choosing between fractional vs. full-time, and effectively finding, attracting, and interviewing early employees in a startup environment. The session is intentionally focused on recruiting and selection; onboarding and an HR "starter kit" will be addressed in a follow-up session. 

• Knowing who to hire first and why 

• Fractional vs Full-Time 

• Practical Recruiting and Interview Framework 

This session is ideal for founders who are at or approaching the point of making their first hire and want to get it right the first time. 

About the Speaker 

Chris Wessell is the Managing Partner of PeopleWise, a boutique executive search and advisory firm that helps small and growing organizations solve high-stakes hiring challenges, often filling first-of-their-kind roles. A University at Albany alum ('02, MBA '04) and current adjunct business instructor, Chris has spent his 20+ year career working with founders and leadership teams as they scale, including hiring early employees in startup and growth-stage environments. He is actively involved in the Capital Region startup ecosystem and regularly advises founders on role definition, recruiting strategy, and candidate evaluation.  

Right to Start’s New York Starters Coalition and WorkSmart Coworking and Meeting Space will be hosting “From Solo to Scalable: Growing Beyond the Owner-Operated Stage”.

The event is free and open to the public, but space is limited so RSVPs are required. Breakfast and coffee will be served.

Session Overview:

Many small business owners reach a point where passion and skill have built a strong foundation, but time, capacity, and bandwidth limit growth. This event is a practical session for entrepreneurs ready to transition from doing it all themselves to building a resilient, people-centered business that can thrive (and even operate) without them.

Participants will hear from local business owners who’ve made the leap, gain insights on hiring and outsourcing, and leave with actionable tools to take their next step toward sustainable growth and long-term value creation.